Selecting the right
fishing tackle equipment is a highly individual process. And once you have your fishing gear, it's only the beginning of an exciting and challenging journey that ends with landing a fresh-caught fish. It's important to understand the "language" of fishing. Here's a short rundown on many of the most important terms related to fishing equipment for UK sportsmen.
Rod: This is a long, thin pole that can be made from fibreglass, graphite or composite materials. Most fishing rods have metal eyelets or guides spaced along their lengths that function as guides for the line. There are also attachment points for reels. Fishing rods are tapered and many have specialised grips.
Reel: This is a mechanical device that has a rotating spool on which line is wound. Fishing reels usually have a brake or drag setting that puts resistance on the spool to slow down a fish that has "run" with the bait. There are several types of reel, depending on the fishing method. These types are casting, spinning, spin casting and fly fishing reels.
Line: This is a specialised heavy-duty type string or thread that can be made from a variety of materials. Popular line materials include nylon monofilament, braided fibres or even wire. Line for fly fishing is sometimes tapered to facilitate casting. The fishing line passes through the guides on the rod and winds onto the reel via a hand-operated crank on the reel.
Leader: This is a length of heavy-duty monofilament or other durable material that's strung between the hook and the end of the line. Leaders provide extra strength against rocks or other obstructions. Leaders also are resistant to abrasion from the teeth, mouths, scales and gill covers of fish.
Lure: This is a key piece of fishing tackle gear for attracting fish - it's tied to the end of the leader. Lures often simulate the action of prey, either on or under the surface of the water. Lures are filled with hooks, can be hard or soft, are made from a variety of materials and are often brightly coloured and have a terminology all their own. Many fishermen enjoy making their own lures, especially those for fly fishing.
Snap: A device with a quick release that's tied to the leader. A snap facilitates easy attachment and release of hooks and lures.
Swivel: A device that's attached between the lure or leader and the line. A swivel helps prevent the line from twisting or tangling.
Trolling: A method of fishing from a boat. The lure or bait trails as the boat travels slowly through the water, enabling the fisherman to cover a large distance in search of fish.
Still Fishing: As opposed to trolling, this is a method of fishing where the fisherman does not move once the bait or lure enters the water.
Strike: Describes the moment when the fish "hits" or takes the bait. Everything -- all your carefully chosen
fishing tackle equipment, UK fishing lore and strategy -- comes down to this one exhilarating instance!
